A MOTHER wants answers about the hit-and-run driver who seriously hurt her daughter in a Yeading accident.

Eleven year-old Gemma Day, of Down Close, Northolt, was mowed down by the unknown driver on Thursday evening (March 18) as she cycled along Yeading Lane, close to Barnhill Community HIgh School where she is a pupil. The car drove on after the collision, leaving the youngster helpless at the side of the road.

Jackie Day, Gemma's mum, and her husband Harry have both worked for the ambulance service for 50 years between them, and when she was told of her daughter's accident, she quickly made her way to the scene and both her maternal and professional instincts kicked in.

"I was with the ambulance team just trying to keep her calm. She kept insisting that she wanted to get up but I could tell that something was wrong."

Gemma's condition was critical following the incident, and having being taken to Hillingdon Hospital, she was then whisked to Great Ormond Street in Central London for more specialised treatment.

A brain scan revealed three internal bleeds which could have been fatal had they remained undetected. Gemma's condition was closely monitored over the weekend, and she has since returned home.

"It was quite traumatic", Mrs Day added, "helping people in similar situations is what I do for a living but when it's one of your own, it is very different.

"I am the most relieved mum in the world. The whole family were sick with worry, and some travelled from Northampton just to be by her bedside.

"She is a very lucky girl."

The car has been described as a small dark-coloured hatchback, and although several possible models have been put forward by witnesses, Police are still trying to narrow the search down.

Mrs Day said: "We all make mistakes – jumping a red light, going faster than we should – but it's simple; if you hit someone, you stop.

"I dread to think what would have happened if no-one was around and the ambulance hadn't arrived as quickly as they did – the outcome could have been a lot worse.

"Anyone with any information and a conscience should do the right thing and come forward, my daughter could have been killed."

DS Jeff Harper, of Alperton Collision Investigation Unit (CIU), said: "The only difference between that girl being alive and dead is pure luck, and the fact that she is alive and well doesn't make this crime any less reprehensible.

"We intend to follow all lines of enquiry and bring those responsible to justice."

Anyone who can assist police should call Alperton CIU on 020 8998 5319. If you wish to remain anonymous, call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.